college applications

Second Semester Senior Year College Prep Checklist

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

You might think that with college applications out of the way, and acceptance letters rolling in, that second semester of senior year will be a breeze. However, there’s still plenty of prep work to do. A college prep checklist can help you remember what you need to do. Here are some things you should have on …

college applications

College App Essay Tip: Use the Active Voice

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Are you struggling with how to write your college application essay? Don’t worry! Many do. Quite a few students have to brainstorm to determine just what they want to write about and once they settle on a topic, the problem lies in HOW to write it. A major tip is to use the active voice. …

college applications

How To Craft An Impressive Personal Statement For Your College Application

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

A personal statement is one of the most powerful weapons in your arsenal when you are applying to college. It is the one component that allows you to showcase your unique talents and skills, all those traits that set you apart from all other applicants. When all applications come accompanied by outstanding academic grades, how …

college applications

What NOT To Do In Your College Application

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

There are certain things that are sure to get your application rejected. Here’s a list of things of what NOT to do on your college application. Send in Gifts While you might be doing this as a way to show your appreciation, sending in gifts along with your application may be misconstrued as a form …

college applications

How Your Special Talent, Interest, Or Hobby Can Help You Get Accepted Into College

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

You may have taken up a hobby or a few extracurricular activities as a way to take a break from academics. But did you know that these very pursuits can give your application an expected edge? It can boost your chances of getting accepted into college. Check out some of the ways that your special …

college applications

Schools That Accept the Common App

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 29, 2024

The Common App makes it easy for students to apply to multiple colleges Not all schools accept the Common App The Common App is free to use and more than half the member colleges don’t charge an application fee No, not all colleges accept the Common Application. But, of the 3,982 degree-granting postsecondary institutions in …

college applications

22 Keywords To Use In Your College Application Essay

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 10, 2025

Key Takeaway: Your college essay is what helps you stand out among other candidates during the application process, and using the keywords below in your essays can help give you an edge over other candidates—just make sure you don’t overdo it! Keywords matter—but that’s not all. Don’t forget to use emotion, be sincere, get creative, …

college applications

Honesty is the Best Policy: Don’t Lie on Your College Applications

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

You know what they say: cheaters never prosper. Now, it goes without saying that you shouldn’t lie on your college application. Colleges can figure that out, and with all the checks in balances in place, you won’t get away with anything. But stretching the truth? Everyone embellishes their applications, right? Well, maybe you shouldn’t. Honesty …

college applications

How to master your elevator pitch for college applications

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 7, 2025

Key takeaways An elevator pitch is a short summary that highlights who you are, what you’re passionate about, and what makes you unique. Your elevator pitch should be about 30 to 60 seconds long, highlighting your passions, goals, and unique qualities. Focus on clarity and storytelling to make your pitch memorable. Use your elevator pitch …

college applications

The Handy College Application Checklist

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Applying to college can be a juggling act. You need to focus on so many things at the same time. Everything must be done correctly for your application to be successful. Overlooking any one aspect will result in your application getting rejected. That’s why we put together a college application checklist. Experts advise making a …